Scorchers Lock in Exciting Opener

Fanning played the last three games of Perth’s BBL|14 campaign and showed promise atop the order, making valuable contributions against Sydney Sixers (41 from 29) and Adelaide Strikers (29 from 20).

These knocks reinforced the potential Fanning displayed when he was rushed into the Scorchers’ squad for the BBL|13 Eliminator and scored 31 from 20 on debut, challenging a dangerous Strikers attack.

Busy at the crease and strong square of the wicket, Fanning has relished the freedom of batting in the Power Play, recording the strike rate of 145.71 in four BBL appearances to date.

The 24-year-old also took strides forward with his leadership by captaining the Emerging Scorchers during last year’s Top End T20 series in Darwin.

Perth now has two local list spots to fill and will sign two internationals during the BBL Draft this Thursday, 19 June.

Reflecting on his new Perth Scorchers deal, Fanning said:

“I'm definitely excited to be involved for another year - having that taste towards the end of last season was awesome.

“I watched the Big Bash all throughout my teenage years and loved it so to be playing that consistent role at the top of the order was absolutely unreal.

“Naturally I have always been quite attacking but haven’t showcased it, so it’s nice to have the chance to show my more attacking side. It’s another reason why opening the batting with Finn Allen, who is such a destructive player, was a great experience and something I learned a lot from.

“I’ve also learned plenty from our fielders, and fielding is something I’ve worked quite a bit on since joining WA a few years ago. It’s definitely a big area of focus so I can stay involved when I’m not batting and back up all the hard work our bowlers do.

“This Scorchers group is an exciting one to be part of. There's a good blend of youth and experienced senior guys and we all get along really well, so I'm confident that'll help us have success on the field."

Perth Scorchers squad to date for KFC BBL|15: Ashton Agar, Finn Allen (NZ), Mahli Beardman, Cooper Connolly, Sam Fanning, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Bryce Jackson, Matthew Kelly, Mitch Marsh, Lance Morris, Joel Paris, Jhye Richardson, Ashton Turner.